There is grandeur in this view of life, with its several powers, having been originally breathed into a few forms or into one; and that, whilst this planet has gone cycling on according to the fixed law of gravity, from so simple a beginning endless forms most beautiful and most wonderful have been, and are being, evolved.
- Charles Darwin, The Origin of Species, 1859.

Metamorphosis alludes to the process of transformation, where a profound change of form, structure or substance occurs. This exhibition aims to establish clear associations between art and the natural sciences, and to contextualize these dual frameworks, where significant cultural common ground exists. The biological mechanisms of growth, change and evolution are examined in tandem with material, philosophical and conceptual concerns within the visual arts. Highlighting the mutual elements in these distinct disciplines opens up a discourse, which emphasizes experimental overlaps, perception and interpretation, in an historical and contemporary context.
At its core, Metamorphosis aims to explore the dynamic relationship between art and the natural sciences. Each of the artists involved has a unique approach to the dual topics under consideration, and their diverse interpretations encompass a multitude of styles and methodologies. The exhibition encourages a deep integration between both disciplines, and incorporates artworks that investigate experimentation, hybridity, physiological studies, psychoanalytical models, musical interpretation, the historically traditional métier of taxidermy, the specialised craft of glass blowing and sculptural interventions within the space.

Installation view. Image: Charlotte Bosanquet.

Metamorphosis is curated by Rowan Sexton and was developed as part of the ‘curator in residence' project in
PS², 2011.Rowan Sexton is a curator based in Dublin. She is currently Associate Curator at Rubicon Gallery, Dublin, and has previously worked in the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA), the National Gallery and Dublin City Gallery the Hugh Lane. Recent projects include: The God of Small Things (Part 1), Rubicon Gallery, 2012; None Went Mad None Ran Away, Rubicon Gallery, 2012; Rupture, MySpot, 2011; Anita Groener, in association with Rubicon Gallery & Dublin Contemporary 2011; Text as part of Field Work, Niland Gallery, Galway 2011; Public Gesture, The LAB, Dublin, 2011.